Jake and Sara Harward of Mapleton and Kelby and Kathie Iverson of Hurricane are winners of the Utah Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher Excellence in Agriculture awards.
The Harwards’ came out on top in a competition that recognizes young farmers and ranchers who have excelled in their operations and developed leadership abilities. Contestants were evaluated on farming operation growth, financial progress and participation in organizations, including the Farm Bureau.
Jake and Sara Harward began managing ten roadside stands selling sweet corn in 2001 and since have expanded to 31 stands. They also expanded by growing tomatoes, watermelons and cantaloupes.
In 2005, they started growing pumpkins to sell to grocery stores throughout the western United States. They also opened a U-pick pumpkin patch, and have added a petting zoo, corn pile, straw maze and hay rides.
Both couples will compete at the American Farm Bureau annual convention against award winners from across the nation.
The Iversons and their four children own and operate Western Legacy Farm and Ranch, which boards horses, offers riding lessons and sponsors a summer kids camp, Easter egg hunts, cattle drivers and other agricultural activities.
The Utah Farm Bureau claims more than 28,800 families as members. It is affiliated with the American Farm Bureau Federation, the world’s largest general farm organization, with more than 6.2 million members in 50 states and Puerto Rico. Salt Lake Tribune
